Therapeutic riding
A Healing Journey — One Step, One Hoof at a Time
At Cherokee Outlaw Ranch, we believe healing happens when two beings, both learning to trust again, meet in a space filled with patience, understanding, and quiet strength.
Through our therapeutic riding and equine therapy sessions, we create a safe, supportive space where children, teens, and adults can grow emotionally, socially, and physically — all with the help of our rescue horses.
Through our therapeutic riding and equine therapy sessions, we create a safe, supportive space where children, teens, and adults can grow emotionally, socially, and physically — all with the help of our rescue horses.
What is Equine Therapy?
Equine therapy, also known as therapeutic horsemanship, is a unique experience that helps individuals build:
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Emotional regulation - Confidence
- Communication skills
- Physical balance and coordination
- Trust and connection
Who We Work With
We welcome people from all walks of life, aged 5 to 99, and every session is tailored to the unique emotional, mental, or physical needs of the individual.
- At-risk Youth & TeensWe guide young people through emotional challenges, helping them build life skills, develop empathy, and find purpose through consistent connection with horses.
- Neurodivergent IndividualsFrom children on the autism spectrum to those with ADHD or sensory processing challenges, our sessions help build focus, calm, and confidence in a non-judgmental space.
- Survivors of TraumaWe offer a safe, peaceful environment for those healing from abuse, neglect, or emotional trauma — with horses that have often walked the same path.
- Veterans & First RespondersOur ranch provides a quiet escape from the pressures of daily life, giving veterans and first responders a space to breathe, regulate, and reconnect.
- Individuals with Physical DisabilitiesWith gentle horses and patient guidance, our sessions support balance, mobility, and motor development — both on the ground and in the saddle.
- Adults Seeking Mental WellnessWhether you're facing depression, anxiety, burnout, or grief, equine therapy offers calm structure, grounding, and a return to self.
Groundwork-Based Healing
Not everyone is ready to ride — and that’s okay.
Our groundwork and horsemanship sessions are just as powerful as riding. These sessions focus on:
Our groundwork and horsemanship sessions are just as powerful as riding. These sessions focus on:
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Grooming & Horse CareLearn how to properly brush, clean, and care for your horse while building a calm, trusting connection through hands-on interaction. -
Handling & BondingGain confidence in leading, haltering, and working safely around horses while forming a relationship built on mutual respect and patience. -
Horse Body Language & Trust-BuildingUnderstand what your horse is saying through subtle cues — and how your energy, presence, and consistency lay the foundation for trust.
Makaila Fenwick
All therapeutic sessions are led by Makaila Fenwick. She works closely with each client to understand their needs, goals, and comfort levels. Every session is tailored to where you are today — no pressure, no rush.
🕒 Lessons with Makaila are 60-90 minutes long
📍 Available Monday–Saturday, 10 AM – 6 PM (No Wednesdays or Sundays)
🕒 Lessons with Makaila are 60-90 minutes long
📍 Available Monday–Saturday, 10 AM – 6 PM (No Wednesdays or Sundays)
Contact us
(936) 200-1835
ty@cherokeeoutlawranch.org
Ranch Address
91 Scott Ln, Willis, TX 77378
Located 13 miles NE of Willis
ty@cherokeeoutlawranch.org
Ranch Address
91 Scott Ln, Willis, TX 77378
Located 13 miles NE of Willis